Best Overall

CH Pro Throttle + Thrustmaster T-16000M

The ultimate combination for the price. Considered by many to be the ideal configuration when it comes to HOTAS, deploying both the CH Pro Throttle and Thrustmaster T-16000M will ensure you'll have instant and accurate response in flight. Plug-and-play and a host of programmable buttons help make them ideal for space simulation titles.

Bottom line: If you don't have massive amounts of cash to spend on a HOTAS setup, this is among the best you'll get for your buck.

One more thing: CH is pretty much like Nokia — they build their stuff to last.

Why CH Pro Throttle + Thrustmaster T-16000M make up the best HOTAS system

We've selected not one package, but two different products that work well together to create an immersive cockpit experience.

If you're set to primarily play the likes of Elite: Dangerous and Star Citizen, this HOTAS (Hands On Throttle-And-Stick) setup will serve you well. The CH Pro Throttle offers a nice amount of resistance that enables you to control the amount of output for better ship maneuverability. And it's CH so the device itself is designed and built to last for thousands of hours of flight time. So just what do you get with the throttle functionality? There's a whole lot more.

With space simulation titles, you're going to need a bunch of buttons available to map various functions. This is where the 24 (!) buttons come into play with a total of 176 programmable functions that can be configured with the control manager software. Unfortunately there's no detent for those who prefer to have a physical latch to prevent further activation without being disabled, but like all throttle sticks you'll get used to the travel.

As for the Thrustmaster T16000m, it's not the best stick on the market (seriously, you can spend up to $500 on a top-end HOTAS setup). That said, it's fully ambidextrous, sports magnetic sensors for highly accurate friction-free use, and features a plethora of buttons that can be personalized to pack even more functionality without having to reach for the keyboard. There are 12 located on the base and 4 on the stick itself.

If you have more than $250 to splash out on a HOTAS setup, you'll be able to purchase higher quality products, but we feel CH Pro Throttle + Thrustmaster T-16000M is a solid combination.

All-in-One

Saitek X52

Saitek is actually owned by MadCatz, and while that has led to some issues with quality control, the X52 remains today as one of the more trusted options when it comes to an all-in-one package that won't decimate your budget.

Bottom line: Affordable, decent quality, can be adjusted both physically and through software for personalization.

One more thing: Has an LCD display to showcase extra content like active profiles and more.

Affordable

Thrustmaster T-Flight HOTAS X

The T-Flight HOTAS X is an affordable solution, sporting 12 programmable buttons and 5 axles that can be configured depending on requirements. If you're new to HOTAS and space/flight simulators in general, it's an ideal starting point.

Range Topper

Thrustmaster Warthog

The HOTAS Warthog from Thrustmaster is your top-of-the-line option, weighing in at a hefty $390. Should you be on the lookout for something a little more special when it comes to a throttle and stick, you'll find it difficult to go above and beyond this attractive beast.

Bottom line: A great option for those seeking to spend more but do not wish to go for a pricey CH setup.

One more thing: The design of this pair is simply gorgeous.

Conclusion

There are a number of solutions available for purchase. Some good, some bad. Like other peripherals and forms of input, it mostly boils down to personal preference. While we believe the CH Pro Throttle + Thrustmaster T-16000M are great companions, other recommendations in this guide are definitely worth checking out.

Best Overall

CH Pro Throttle + Thrustmaster T-16000M

The ultimate combination for the price. Considered by many to be the ideal configuration when it comes to HOTAS, deploying both the CH Pro Throttle and Thrustmaster T-16000M will ensure you'll have instant and accurate response in flight. Plug-and-play and a host of programmable buttons help make them ideal for space simulation titles.

Bottom line: If you don't have massive amounts of cash to spend on a HOTAS setup, this is among the best you'll get for your buck.

One more thing: CH is pretty much like Nokia — they build their stuff to last.